Ultimate Dairy-Free Dessert Recipes (No-Bake, Creamy, & Kid-Friendly)
When I first went dairy-free, one of the things I missed most was dessert. Classic sweets like puddings, ice creams, and cakes were suddenly off-limits—until I started experimenting and creating my own dairy-free dessert recipes. To my surprise, I didn’t have to give up indulgent, satisfying treats. I just had to swap the dairy for simple, wholesome ingredients like coconut milk, almond milk, and natural sweeteners.
This collection features the best dairy-free dessert recipes I’ve made over the years—each one tested, kid-approved, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you want a quick weeknight treat or a special weekend sweet, you’ll find plenty of variety here: creamy puddings, frozen favorites, no-bake snacks, and even whimsical, fun desserts that spark joy.
The goal with these dairy-free dessert recipes is simple: delicious results with minimal stress. No hard-to-find substitutes. No complicated steps. Just easy, flavorful desserts you can feel good about sharing. Some are vegan, some are gluten-free, but all are 100% free from milk, cream, and cheese.
Let’s dive into these dairy-free dessert recipes that deliver all the flavor and none of the compromise.
Creamy Dairy-Free Desserts
When you think of classic comfort food, creamy desserts probably come to mind first. From silky puddings to luscious drinkable treats, there’s something extra satisfying about smooth, rich sweets—especially when they’re dairy-free and still indulgent.
These dairy-free dessert recipes bring that creamy texture without a drop of cream or milk.
Dairy Free Chocolate Pudding (Reader Favorite)
This dairy free chocolate pudding is one of the most popular recipes on the site—and for good reason. It’s thick, glossy, and ready in under 15 minutes. Made with almond milk, cocoa powder, and cornstarch, it proves that simple pantry staples can create restaurant-quality dessert texture.
It’s perfect for make-ahead treats or lunchbox desserts for kids. You can also top it with coconut whipped cream and fruit to make it party-ready.
Skinny Proffee Coffee – A High-Protein Twist
Not in the mood for spoonable desserts? Try my skinny proffee coffee. It’s more than just a drink—it doubles as a dessert thanks to its creamy texture, sweet flavor, and frothy finish.
Blending brewed coffee with plant-based protein, almond milk, and ice gives you a treat that feels indulgent but keeps things light. Great for post-dinner sipping or a mid-afternoon fix without sugar crashes.
These creamy dairy-free dessert recipes are perfect starting points if you’re transitioning from milk-based sweets. They’re easy to prep, family-friendly, and full of flavor without any compromise.
Frozen Dairy-Free Treats
When the weather heats up—or you just need a cold, refreshing bite—frozen desserts are a must. Traditional ice creams rely heavily on dairy for creaminess, but these dairy-free dessert recipes use coconut milk and simple ingredients to deliver flavor-packed, freezer-friendly treats.
Chocolate Dairy-Free Ice Cream
This ultra-creamy frozen treat uses full-fat coconut milk, cocoa powder, and maple syrup for deep chocolate flavor without needing an ice cream machine. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for hot days or when you’re craving a scoop of something rich but totally plant-based.
The texture is smooth and scoopable, and with only a few ingredients, it’s one of the easiest recipes in your freezer rotation.
Whipped Coconut Milk Ice Cream
Another favorite is a no-churn ice cream made from whipped coconut milk. This version is lighter in flavor and lets you build your own custom mix-ins—like chocolate chips, nut butter swirls, or berries.
It’s great for kids and adults alike, and a perfect base for building out your own dairy-free sundae night.
Frozen dairy-free dessert recipes prove that you don’t have to miss out on summer favorites just because you’re skipping milk. With minimal prep and tons of flavor, these options make dessert effortless and satisfying year-round.
No-Bake Dairy-Free Desserts
Sometimes, the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven. That’s where no-bake sweets shine. These dairy-free dessert recipes are fast, flexible, and perfect for weeknights, hot days, or last-minute cravings.
Moonbeam Ice Cream – A Whimsical No-Bake Treat
This dreamy, whimsical frozen dessert skips the baking and still feels magical. The base is coconut milk, blended with plant-based ingredients to give it a unique, naturally sweet flavor and soft texture. Kids love the fun color and creamy bite, and adults appreciate how easy it is to prep in advance.
It’s freezer-friendly and a great way to mix things up when you’re tired of basic vanilla or chocolate.
Make-Ahead Treats for Busy Days
Even drinks can double as dessert. That’s why recipes like my dairy-free protein coffee or chilled pudding jars are so popular—they check the dessert box without any baking involved.
These kinds of no-bake recipes also store beautifully. Just prep, chill, and enjoy all week long. You can even freeze extras in small portions for easy access whenever a craving hits.
No-bake dairy-free dessert recipes are all about simplicity. They let you enjoy something sweet without the stress, the heat, or complicated cleanup. From freezable bites to creamy, prep-ahead jars, they make dessert fit your schedule—not the other way around.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dairy-Free Dessert Recipes
What desserts can I eat if I’m dairy-free?
There are plenty of desserts you can enjoy while avoiding dairy. Some of the best include chocolate pudding made with almond or coconut milk, no-churn coconut-based ice creams, fruit crisps without butter, and no-bake bites using nut butters or plant-based yogurt. The key is swapping traditional cream, butter, and milk for plant-based alternatives that still deliver flavor and texture.
Is coconut milk a good substitute in desserts?
Absolutely. Full-fat canned coconut milk is one of the best substitutes for cream in dairy-free dessert recipes. It adds richness, a smooth texture, and works well in ice creams, puddings, and baked goods. It also whips up beautifully for topping pies, puddings, or fruit.
Are there any quick dairy-free desserts I can prep in advance?
Yes! No-bake chocolate pudding, freezer-friendly coconut milk ice cream, and protein coffee shakes are perfect examples. You can prep them in under 15 minutes and store them for several days. These options are great for busy weeks or when you need grab-and-go treats.
Can I make dairy-free desserts kid-friendly?
Definitely. Recipes like creamy ice cream, chocolate pudding, and fruity frozen pops are all kid-approved. The key is keeping the ingredients simple and natural—think bananas, maple syrup, cocoa powder, and almond or coconut milk.
Do I need specialty ingredients to make dairy-free desserts?
Not at all. Most dairy-free dessert recipes use everyday ingredients like plant-based milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and cornstarch. You don’t need expensive substitutes or artificial products. With a few pantry staples, you can create satisfying desserts from scratch.
